2005 Dodge Caravan

Asking Price Range

Estimated MPG

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), also known as "sticker" price, is a recommended selling price that automakers give a new car that is above the invoice price paid by the dealer. It is a price that does not include any options that can be added to a particular car style. When shown as a range, the prices are starting MSRPs, without options, for multiple styles for that model.

This price range reflects for-sale prices on Cars.com for this particular make, model and year.

These city and highway gas mileage estimates are for the model's standard trim configurations. Where there are optional features, packages or equipment that result in higher gas mileage, those fuel-economy estimates are not included here.

Summary

By Jim Flammang

Cars.com National

November 5, 2004

Vehicle OverviewDodge is promoting the Caravan's price as this year's most attractive feature. With a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $18,330 (not including the $665 destination charge), the four-cylinder Caravan SE is billed as the lowest-priced minivan on the market. Dodge also offers a Caravan SXT that's equipped with a 3.3-liter V-6, as well as a Cargo Van model.

Built on an all-new platform like the Grand Caravan, the regular Caravan comes on a shorter, 113.3-inch wheelbase. Developers claim the 2005 minivans are 16 percent quieter than their predecessors.

DaimlerChrysler introduced its 2005 models in January 2004 at the North American International Auto Show. Sales began in early 2004. The Chrysler Town & Country minivans are similar to Dodge's models but have more upscale interior appointments. Chrysler "invented" the minivan segment more than 20 years ago and has sold more than 10 million of them.

ExteriorThe styling of the 2005 Caravan is similar to the 2004 model. Dodge's familiar crosshair grille sits up front and has a U-shaped design with black bars. The minivan's grille is similar to the one on the new Dodge Magnum wagon. A new front fascia contains a molded license plate pocket and new fog lamps. Bodyside moldings are also new. Restyled aluminum wheels hold 16-inch tires on SXT minivans, while SE models roll on 15-inch steel wheels with fresh wheel covers. Power operation for the passenger-side sliding door is optional.

InteriorAll regular Caravan minivans seat seven occupants. Super High Density Foam, developed by NASA for the space program, is used in the minivan's seats.

Caravan SXT features include dual-zone air conditioning, a rear defroster system and a tilt steering column. In addition, heated power mirrors, sunscreen glass, power door locks and keyless illuminated entry are standard on the SXT. For entertainment, the SE contains an AM/FM stereo with a CD player, and the SXT has a cassette/CD unit. Power-adjustable pedals and integrated child-safety seats are optional.

Under the HoodA 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder goes into the SE, while the SXT gets a 3.3-liter V-6 that develops 180 hp. Both minivans have a four-speed-automatic transmission.

SafetyAntilock brakes are optional for the SXT. Side curtain-type airbags are optional in the SE and SXT. An inflatable knee blocker helps protect the driver. Multistage front airbags, a BeltAlert reminder and a new sliding-door alert system for 2005 have been installed.